Celebrating the Divine Power of Motherhood

 

Summary

On this special Mother's Day, we gather to honor and celebrate the incredible women who have shaped our lives with their love, guidance, and support. As we begin, I extend a heartfelt welcome to everyone joining us online from the Unity of Chicago South Spiritual Community. Today, we reflect on the profound impact of mothers and maternal figures, recognizing their unique contributions to our lives and the world.

Mother's Day is a time for worldwide expression of gratitude and appreciation for the nurturing, guidance, and wisdom that mothers impart throughout their lives. This day is not only for biological mothers but also for adoptive mothers, stepmothers, grandmothers, and other maternal figures who have played significant roles in our lives. It is an opportunity for families to come together and celebrate the love and unity that strengthen family relationships. For mothers, this day serves as a reminder to prioritize self-care, well-being, and to take time to rest, recharge, and rejuvenate.

We acknowledge the divine nature of motherhood, which we refer to as "mom power." This mom power is characterized by an unconditional love that promotes forgiveness and allows children to grow without the burden of emotional scars. It extends beyond the home, reaching friends, neighbors, and the community at large. This caring nature and kind heart are reflections of God's love for humanity, empowering mothers to cultivate inner peace, strength, and wisdom. This divine space within them, sometimes called "mother wit," provides guidance in the darkest moments.

Motherhood is not a linear experience; it requires a willingness to provide either a strong or soft hand as needed, based on the situation. Mothers remain a foundation of support through the ups and downs of life, offering healing, comforting, and guiding support. This unwavering trust and support can be likened to a divine kiss from God, residing in the inner strength of mom power.

As we celebrate Mother's Day, let us remember that each of us reached this plane through the birth process unique to a female. We owe a special thanks to our mothers and maternal figures. On this day, let us replace any imperfections with love and gratitude. Let us extend our appreciation beyond today, recognizing that the good works of our mothers travel with us throughout our lives.

In closing, I remind you of our upcoming virtual book club live chat on May 19th, where we will discuss "How to Be Good to Yourself." This is a valuable topic for everyone, as it emphasizes the importance of self-care and recognizing the infinite source available to all of us. As we declare our openness and receptivity to this divine living principle, we affirm that all is well and well indeed.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Universal Impact of Mothers: Mother's Day is a time to honor not just biological mothers but all maternal figures who have played significant roles in our lives. This day is an opportunity for families to come together and celebrate the love and unity that strengthen family relationships. It is also a reminder for mothers to prioritize their self-care and well-being. [11:15]

2. The Divine Nature of Mom Power: Mom power is characterized by an unconditional love that promotes forgiveness and allows children to grow without emotional scars. This love extends beyond the home, reaching friends, neighbors, and the community at large. It is a reflection of God's love for humanity, empowering mothers to cultivate inner peace, strength, and wisdom. [13:04]

3. The Non-Linear Expression of Motherhood: Motherhood requires a willingness to provide either a strong or soft hand as needed, based on the situation. Mothers remain a foundation of support through the ups and downs of life, offering healing, comforting, and guiding support. This unwavering trust and support can be likened to a divine kiss from God. [15:00]

4. Gratitude Beyond Mother's Day: As we celebrate Mother's Day, let us remember that each of us reached this plane through the birth process unique to a female. We owe a special thanks to our mothers and maternal figures. On this day, let us replace any imperfections with love and gratitude, extending our appreciation beyond today. [16:59]

5. The Infinite Source Available to All: There is an infinite source available to everyone, regardless of race, gender, or religion. As we declare our openness and receptivity to this divine living principle, we affirm that all is well and well indeed. This principle supports the stars and is available to each of us, providing guidance and support in our lives. [09:02]

Youtube Chapters:

[0:00] - Welcome
[09:02] - Infinite Source and Declaration
[11:15] - Honoring All Maternal Figures
[13:04] - The Divine Nature of Mom Power
[15:00] - Non-Linear Expression of Motherhood
[16:59] - Extending Gratitude Beyond Mother's Day

Study Guide

### Bible Study Discussion Guide

#### Bible Reading
1. Proverbs 31:25-28 (NIV)
> "She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her."

2. Isaiah 66:13 (NIV)
> "As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you; and you will be comforted over Jerusalem."

3. 1 Thessalonians 2:7-8 (NIV)
> "Instead, we were like young children among you. Just as a nursing mother cares for her children, so we cared for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well."

#### Observation Questions
1. According to the sermon, what are some of the roles that maternal figures play in our lives? [11:15]
2. How does the sermon describe "mom power" and its impact on children and the community? [13:04]
3. What does the sermon suggest about the non-linear nature of motherhood? [15:00]
4. How does the sermon encourage us to extend our gratitude beyond Mother's Day? [16:59]

#### Interpretation Questions
1. In what ways does the concept of "mom power" reflect the attributes of God's love as described in the Bible? [13:04]
2. How can the non-linear expression of motherhood be seen as a reflection of God's adaptability and responsiveness to our needs? [15:00]
3. What might be the significance of extending gratitude beyond Mother's Day in the context of our spiritual growth and relationships? [16:59]
4. How does the idea of an "infinite source available to all" relate to the sermon’s message about self-care and well-being for mothers? [09:02]

#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a maternal figure in your life who has shown "mom power." How has their unconditional love and support impacted you? [13:04]
2. Think about a time when a maternal figure provided you with either a strong or soft hand. How did this guidance help you navigate a difficult situation? [15:00]
3. How can you show appreciation and support to the maternal figures in your life beyond just Mother's Day? What specific actions can you take? [16:59]
4. In what ways can you encourage the mothers in your community to prioritize their self-care and well-being? What practical steps can you suggest? [11:15]
5. How can you embody the "mom power" attributes of unconditional love and forgiveness in your own relationships and community interactions? [13:04]
6. Identify a maternal figure who has been a source of wisdom and guidance for you. How can you express your gratitude to them this week?
7. Reflect on the idea of an "infinite source available to all." How can this principle guide you in supporting and uplifting the maternal figures in your life? [09:02]

Devotional

Day 1: The Universal Impact of Mothers
Mothers and maternal figures play a crucial role in our lives, offering love, guidance, and support. Mother's Day is a time to honor not just biological mothers but all maternal figures who have significantly impacted our lives. This day is an opportunity for families to come together and celebrate the love and unity that strengthen family relationships. It is also a reminder for mothers to prioritize their self-care and well-being, recognizing the importance of taking time to rest, recharge, and rejuvenate. By doing so, they can continue to provide the nurturing and guidance that their families need.

The impact of mothers extends beyond the immediate family, reaching friends, neighbors, and the community at large. Their nurturing nature and kind hearts are reflections of God's love for humanity. As we celebrate Mother's Day, let us remember to express our gratitude and appreciation for the incredible women who have shaped our lives. Let us also extend this appreciation beyond today, recognizing that the good works of our mothers travel with us throughout our lives. [11:15]

Isaiah 66:13 (ESV): "As one whom his mother comforts, so I will comfort you; you shall be comforted in Jerusalem."

Reflection: Think of a maternal figure in your life who has significantly impacted you. How can you show your appreciation and gratitude to them today?


Day 2: The Divine Nature of Mom Power
Mom power is characterized by an unconditional love that promotes forgiveness and allows children to grow without emotional scars. This love extends beyond the home, reaching friends, neighbors, and the community at large. It is a reflection of God's love for humanity, empowering mothers to cultivate inner peace, strength, and wisdom. This divine nature of motherhood, sometimes referred to as "mother wit," provides guidance in the darkest moments, offering a sense of security and comfort.

Mothers possess a unique ability to forgive and nurture, creating an environment where children can thrive and develop into their best selves. This unconditional love is a powerful force that can heal emotional wounds and foster a sense of belonging and acceptance. As we reflect on the divine nature of mom power, let us recognize the strength and wisdom that mothers bring to our lives and communities. [13:04]

Proverbs 31:26 (ESV): "She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue."

Reflection: Reflect on a time when a maternal figure in your life demonstrated unconditional love and forgiveness. How did this impact your growth and development?


Day 3: The Non-Linear Expression of Motherhood
Motherhood requires a willingness to provide either a strong or soft hand as needed, based on the situation. Mothers remain a foundation of support through the ups and downs of life, offering healing, comforting, and guiding support. This unwavering trust and support can be likened to a divine kiss from God, residing in the inner strength of mom power. The non-linear nature of motherhood means that mothers must adapt to the ever-changing needs of their children and families, providing the appropriate response in each situation.

This adaptability is a testament to the resilience and strength of mothers, who continuously strive to create a nurturing and supportive environment for their loved ones. By offering both strong and soft guidance, mothers help their children navigate the complexities of life, fostering growth and development. As we reflect on the non-linear expression of motherhood, let us appreciate the flexibility and dedication that mothers bring to their roles. [15:00]

Isaiah 49:15 (ESV): "Can a woman forget her nursing child, that she should have no compassion on the son of her womb? Even these may forget, yet I will not forget you."

Reflection: Think of a situation where a maternal figure in your life provided either strong or soft guidance. How did their response help you navigate that situation?


Day 4: Gratitude Beyond Mother's Day
As we celebrate Mother's Day, let us remember that each of us reached this plane through the birth process unique to a female. We owe a special thanks to our mothers and maternal figures. On this day, let us replace any imperfections with love and gratitude, extending our appreciation beyond today. Recognizing the sacrifices and efforts of our mothers and maternal figures is essential in fostering a sense of gratitude and appreciation that lasts throughout the year.

By expressing our gratitude and appreciation, we can strengthen our relationships with our mothers and maternal figures, creating a deeper sense of connection and understanding. Let us make a conscious effort to show our appreciation regularly, acknowledging the love and support that these incredible women provide. [16:59]

Colossians 3:15 (ESV): "And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful."

Reflection: How can you regularly express your gratitude and appreciation to the maternal figures in your life beyond Mother's Day?


Day 5: The Infinite Source Available to All
There is an infinite source available to everyone, regardless of race, gender, or religion. As we declare our openness and receptivity to this divine living principle, we affirm that all is well and well indeed. This principle supports the stars and is available to each of us, providing guidance and support in our lives. By tapping into this infinite source, we can find the strength, wisdom, and peace needed to navigate the challenges of life.

Recognizing the infinite source available to us allows us to cultivate a sense of inner peace and resilience. This divine living principle is a reminder that we are never alone and that we have access to a boundless source of support and guidance. As we open ourselves to this infinite source, we can find the strength to overcome obstacles and the wisdom to make informed decisions. [09:02]

Jeremiah 17:7-8 (ESV): "Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit."

Reflection: How can you open yourself to the infinite source of support and guidance available to you today? What steps can you take to cultivate inner peace and resilience?

Quotes

### Quotes for Outreach

1. "Mother's Day itself is an annual day of remembrance and celebration of the support that mothers provide not only to their children but also their families as a whole. It's the time for worldwide expression of gratitude and appreciation for the nurturing and guidance and wisdom that mothers so willingly impart throughout their lives. Mother's Day is not only a celebration for biological mothers but it includes honoring the many diverse forms of motherhood: adoptive mothers, stepmothers, grandmothers as well as other maternal figures." [11:15]( | | )

2. "Another reminder is there is an infinite source available for everyone. It is there for each who seek it no matter their race, their gender, their gender or religion. Believe what you may but know that the source of the universe is also the source of each of us. Therefore, the principle supporting the stars is the same principle supporting and available to each of us." [09:02]( | | )

3. "Mother's Day offers us an opportunity to honor the teaching values and traditions instilled by our mothers and for mothers themselves the day serves as a reminder for them to prioritize themselves with self-care and well-being and to take time to rest and recharge and rejuvenate and nurture themselves." [11:15]( | | )

4. "Day should inspire us to provide acts of kindness and compassion toward all mothers, extending gestures of appreciation, support, and love to any of those that have played a maternal role in our lives, regardless if it is our birth mother, a nurturing female, or one who provides the support we need at the proper time." [11:15]( | | )

5. "Each of them travels a sacred journey of spiritual growth and transformation, which allows them to draw from an inner well of divine love and wisdom to share with their family and beyond. This is an aspect of us, the divine nature of motherhood. That's mom power." [13:04](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip | )

### Quotes for Members

1. "Another aspect of that mom power is their ability to love unconditionally, which promotes forgiveness. And it is their willingness to activate this ability to forgive childish errors that allows a child to grow, not burdened with emotional scars. This ability to love unconditionally often extends beyond the walls of their home, to the friends of their children, to the neighbors in the community, to the community at large." [13:04](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip | )

2. "Mom power is often demonstrated as caring nature, as a kind heart. It is a reflection of God's love for humanity, which empowers mothers to cultivate an inner peace, a strength, and wisdom, giving them the special mom power, insight that they are able to call upon in the darkest moments, to impart a guidance that only can come from that divine space within them. The divine space that some call mother wit." [13:04](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip | )

3. "As motherhood itself, it's not linear in expression. It is a willingness to provide the adjusted strong or soft hand as needed based on the situation. To remain a foundation of support through the ups and downs of those that they love. And if we should be so fortunate to be a recipient of that healing, comforting, guiding support of unwavering trust, it can be likened to a divine kiss. A divine kiss. A divine kiss from God that resides in the inner divine strength of mom power." [15:00]( | | )

4. "Let me remind you as we go forth today, celebrating the reality that each of us reached this plane through the birth process unique to a female. Let's remember we owe her. We owe her a special thanks. And on this day, all that seems not perfect in appearance or fact can be replaced by love. It's our choice." [15:00]( | | )

5. "Let our special thanks, love, and appreciation for them extend beyond today. Just as their good works will travel in us and with us as we go through this life experience." [16:59]( | | )

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Transcript
What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?
Were there any personal stories shared?